So, I think it’s time for my obligatory Social Media Snake Oil post, per the Social Media Bloggers Union, Local 438.
Seriously, though. It pains me when I read/meet/see/encounter someone who’s been bitten. I hate it. It sucks. And not just for the person bitten, who becomes gun-shy at the thought of hiring someone else. But for the professionals who are legitimately looking to do good work.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from educating myself about social media is that it’s more than just knowing how to use the tools. Anyone can use the tools. As a matter of fact, I’ve seen trained monkeys using a computer, so I know I’m right.
Here are a few of the things that I have learned that you should be doing to integrate Social Media into your current marketing plan. If all you hear is Twitter and nothing about these things, please hand the person back their snake oil and send them on their way:
1) What did you just say? Current marketing plan? – Yes, that’s right. Social Media is nothing more than a new tool to add to your arsenal, not something entirely new into itself. Don’t have a good marketing plan? There are firms out there who help out with that. And they are pretty good at what they do, too. I’ve worked with a couple. The Twist?
2) The Twist? Say hi to your customer – You see, contrary to everything you may think, that person giving you money actually is a PERSON. And people have thoughts. The even tend to be passionate about those thoughts. and I’m sure they wouldn’t mind sharing them with you. And using tools like Social Media, it allows us to listen to customers. This allows you to become better and create passionate fans.
3) Social Media is not free – Sure, many of the tools are free or are freemium services, but manpower isn’t. If you look to outsource it, then remember this: good knowledge is worth the money. Individuals with proven track records and agencies with professionals respected in the Social Media space.
